Stefano Cossalter, DTM Advances to Semifinals of Toastmasters International Speech Contest

Pitt Meadows resident Stefano Cossalter, DTM has advanced to the semifinals of the Toastmasters International Speech Contest, a global competition that begins with more than 30,000 speakers competing in clubs around the world.
Cossalter earned his place in the semifinals after winning his quarterfinal contest and is now competing against the top 26 competitive speakers in the world.

“This is incredibly exciting, not just for me, but for our local Toastmaster District.” said Cossalter. “I'm looking forward to the opportunity to compete at the highest level and to represent Canada in the semifinals."

The Toastmasters International Speech Contest begins at the Club level and progresses through Area, Division, District, quarterfinal, semifinal, and final rounds.

This year’s contest has special significance for local Toastmasters because the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention will be held in Vancouver, British Columbia, August 19–22. The convention will bring Toastmasters members from around the world to Vancouver and will include the International Speech Contest Semifinals and the World Championship of Public Speaking.

“For the international convention to be in Vancouver this year makes the opportunity even more meaningful,” said Cossalter. “The semifinals would take place close to home, with family, friends, and fellow Toastmasters nearby.”

Stefano is a member of Blue Heron Toastmasters, in District 21 British Columbia & Yukon, and is part of Toastmasters International, a nonprofit educational organization that helps people build confidence, communication, and leadership skills through a supportive club environment. Members practise prepared speeches, impromptu speaking, meeting leadership, and constructive feedback.

“Toastmasters gives ordinary people a place to find their voice,” said Cossalter. “Whether someone wants to speak at work, lead more confidently, tell better stories, or simply stop fearing public speaking, a local club like Blue Heron Toastmasters can be life-changing. The organization has revolutionized my life, giving me the ability to communicate whether it's an audience of one thousand or an audience of one.”

For more information on Toastmasters International local to District 21 British Columbia & Yukon, please visit www.d21toastmasters.ca or contact @email.